For Long-Term Sleep Improvement in Adults and Children, Melatonin May Not Be the Answer

Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the body to regulate sleep and wake cycles. In recent years, it has become popular among both adults and children as a sleep aid, with nearly half of adults and 39 percent of adults reporting regular use. However, the long-term effects of melatonin use remain largely unknown.

There are potential risks and side effects associated with taking melatonin supplements, including feelings of depression, mood swings, seizures, nausea, dizziness, and interactions with medications used for blood clotting, seizures, diabetes, and high blood pressure. While melatonin is not regulated by the FDA in the same way as pharmaceutical drugs, it can still vary in effectiveness and safety from product to product.

Studies suggest that melatonin may be less effective for treating insomnia in the long term, and it's not approved for long-term use. It is meant to help reset circadian rhythms, not to be a daily sleep aid. Research shows that prolonged use could increase the risk of heart failure. Additionally, the use of melatonin has increased among children in recent years, but the long-term effects and safety are still unclear.

Experts recommend focusing on establishing good sleep habits, such as winding down before bedtime, rather than relying on melatonin supplementation.